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A letter to our Cambodia and Vietnam travellers

Heading out on the road can be a downright daunting experience, full of the unexpected and when you are surrounded with people who share the same vision as you, the journey is amazing. We each see & feel such spectacular things and we’re all in a constant state of learning.

The friends you have met on this trip and the boundless opportunities that you have given to the tour-leaders to showcase their countries, the ladies you supported in opening their cooking classes; the new games you taught the children that brought them so much joy, which was displayed through their clapping & their smiles; the love towards Yeay who appreciated being given the chance to share her story for the first time; the love you showered the home-host you stayed with and the appreciation you showed by enjoying the yummy dishes they made for you; the selfless funds you contributed to building the toilet and the fun you had painting it; the water filters you delivered to those who do not have access to clean water; the commencement of the crafting classes that was kick started for the women in order for them to be able to afford to bring food to the table; the pure joy shared with them; the smiles and laughter shared with the children; the kites you flew with them; the skipping of the ropes (even though most of us failed miserably) – these are the special memories you are taking with you and the footprint you are leaving behind.

Collectively we have contributed USD$2414 on the various projects we have had, and we have directly touched the lives of 144 people. I also believe that each one of us is going back home a different person, so let’s add another 14 people to this list, that makes it a total of 158 people.

I hope this journey has spoken to you & touched your heart like never before.

The bond of friendship you have made on this trip is truly special and one that will unite us always. We have burst into one another’s lives with spectacular ideas and all of the excitement in the world.

Thank you for joining me on this journey and for making this little baby of mine even more unforgettable. We are all individually talented and collectively powerful.

As you bid farewell to this trip and ride through the streets of lanterns this evening, think of the beautiful smiles you have encountered throughout the journey and know that you are leaving Cambodia and Vietnam better to when you first got here.

You did this!

Simla,

Founder, Hands on Journeys 

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The Khmer Rouge from the eyes of our tour guide

A guest post by one of our travellers, Colin Stanley.

Wrought with disruption, violence, and unrest, the years leading to Chamreun’s birth were turbulent, to say the least.

External pressures from changing regimes and bombardment from imperialist powers threw the Kingdom of Cambodia into an unexpected tailspin that witnessed some of the most horrific acts of history. Dissidents of the once mighty Angkor Empire, were to feel the anguish of death knocking upon every home. Following release from French colonial rule, a deep dissatisfaction for the monarchy grew from the poverty stricken streets of Phnom Penh. Major conflicts in neighboring Vietnam raged-on year after year, a bloody affair that left few unscathed. An avenue for the Ho Chi Minh Trail, the Cambodia was under heavy attack by U.S. bombers targeting Viet Kong troops and supplies traveling south for the fight. A reign of fire fell from the sky above rural agrarian populations. War was brought to the doorstep of the small underdeveloped country by 1970, a price the people are still paying for today.  

“Faster, faster!”, pokes from a muzzle of an AK-47 wielded by young hands moved a procession of refugees deeper into the veil of the jungle. A once prominent family from the capital quivered in fear of their country brethren who had been indoctrinated with the prophecies of a fool.

Year Zero had begun and the plan to bring Cambodia back to simpler time was in full effect. Work camps were constructed and citizens were displaced from urban areas. Life was eerily left behind as Chamreun’s grandmother, grandfather, mother, father, aunts, and uncles were forced from their homes. A treacherous journey through the veil of the Khmer jungle saw the death of many. As unlikely as it was, a family was able to keep intact despite their surroundings. In this setting, Chamreun’s mother held bowls of watery rice porridge to the mouths of her younger siblings, bringing them enough strength and hope to fight another day.

 Cham Tour Guide

The Khmer Rouge put much of their efforts in recruiting and turning a population against itself. Those who spoke out against the Khmer Rouge or were suspected of thinking outside of what was allowed were brutally murdered by their own people. Tragically, teachers, lawyers, and doctors were prime targets during the genocide, sending the country into an intellectual dark age of sorts. In less than four years over 2 to 3 million Khmers died from malnutrition, exhaustion, murder, and disease; many of whom were once citizens of Phnom Penh. Visiting these sites in and around the capital is a somber reminder of this relatively recent tragedy.

Screams from underneath a palm rang through the refugee camp. Captors unbothered by the anguish, suck at cigarettes and continue to play cards. The terrifying howls were unlike the common calls of torture and death that they had become all too familiar with. Instead of loss, it was the cry of rejuvenation… a baby being born in circumstances that were nothing but joyous. Chamreun’s mother ran from point to point gathering help, water, and supplies to deliver her younger sister. A new life was brought into a seemingly crumbling society. This is not a story of death, it is about hope and overcoming obstacles beyond belief.

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Meet our tour guides: Cham

Without a doubt, the most important part of any tour group is the guide: they can make or break your trip.

At Hands on Journeys we spent a long term hunting down the perfect locals to show you the sights, sounds and magic of their countries on our tours. But what do they think makes a great tour leader?

We asked Cham, our Cambodian tour leader to say hello…

Cham Cambodia Tour Guide

Cham, what do you love about being a tour guide?

Being a tour guide for HOJs is my privilege and a dream come true. It’s about meeting new people who come from different countries and speaking different languages whilst joining the tour to do good for other people. To share with them about our culture, tradition and delivering a true smile and warmth to all travellers which they will never forget.

What’s the best thing about a HOJ tour?

Empowering while traveling is the best thing of a HOJs tour. It shows the traveller what they can do beyond visiting the sights, therefore they get the opportunity to bring smile and a change to people’s life which they never thought possible.

What’s your favourite Cambodian food and why?

I love AMOK Fish because it is made of spice and curry based with coconut oil. It’s our traditional dish which not many people know how to do it, so it’s my favorite food by far.

Where is your favourite place to explore or visit in Cambodia

My favorite place we visit is the village close to the capital where I feel like home. When you walk around people just greet you by smiling and it is a spectacular feeling. When there I feel that my shoulders are less heavy and I can enjoy the moment like home. Buy a drink from the local store or even coffee, having ice cream from the food cart, visiting the grand pagoda for praying and ten riding a bicycle around the village which I love.

Tell us a funny fact about you?

I’m so busy body, I like hearing all about people and I think it’s a good experience to learn about peoples stories either bad or good (so I can black mail them later hehe).  Also, I like dancing of all time.

Cham Tour Guide

What do you think makes a great tour guide?

To be a great tour guide I would say:

>Be who you are with the all travellers so that can build a friendship with you. Then you can feel more comfortable and won’t hesitate to talk to you or ask questions.

>Being good at psychology. Experience will teach you to read peoples mind so you can be responsive to their needs.

>Be flexible in any circumstances, as many people like different thing, so always prepare a back up plan, and work smart by using your brain to deal with all the groups different needs.

>Personal character and behavior is the most essential part above all. Be a good tour guide, no matter how experiencing you are, how old you are, you gotta be humble and friendly to everyone from any status. Because of your politeness, friendliness, understanding you can build great bonds and have an amazing tour experience for everyone.

 

Why should I book a HOJ tour and explore Cambodia with Cham

Because Cham is Cham! I love to connect you with local people and always keep telling you everything there is to do so you don’t worry about having less free time. I’m helping you to enjoy the day though you have a long one, with Cham, your feet will not be allowed to touch the floor, unless you want them too!

One thing that Cham need to ask from the traveller is your mood. It’s is important to keep Cham energetic all the time because your smile mean everything to him. And I don’t want anything back in return beside your satisfaction!

 

Want to see Chams’ famous dance moves? Join us in Cambodia!

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How to survive as a vegetarian in South East Asia

South East Asia is probably the easiest continent to travel as a vegetarian. It is however important to know a few things before you go. Whilst most of our small group tours through South East Asia and India provide lavish food feasts and can cater for vegetarians sometimes you will find your self hunting down some delicious eats alone.

Here are our top 5 tips on how to be a Vegetarian in Asia!

1.Learn basic words concerning food in the local language

We strongly recommend you learn some words to be able to have a basic conversation with the locals anyway, but as a vegetarian you’ll need to do some extra effort to make sure not to accidentally eat meat or other ‘forbidden’ products. Don’t just learn the word for ‘vegetarian’ though, also learn how to say ‘no meat’, ‘no fish’, ‘vegetables’, ‘eggs’, etc. as different countries and cultures might not really use the word ‘vegetarian’ or have a whole other definition for it.

Don’t just try to pronounce these words yourself, make sure you have a written list to avoid being misunderstood because you were using the wrong accent or pronunciation.

2.Be careful with ingredients like fish sauce, broth, …

In most South East Asian countries, a dish is considered vegetarian as long as you don’t actually eat the meat or fish. For this reason, ingredients like broth or fish sauce are usually considered to be vegetarian, while you probably don’t want to consume them. Add these words to your list of ‘words to learn in the local language’, and make sure to ask every time.

More generally we recommend taking a minute to analyze every dish you’re ready to order, never assume the local definition of the word ‘vegetarian’ will be identical to yours, and ask questions whenever you’re in doubt.

3.Be creative and dare to ask

Even if you don’t find any vegetarian dishes on the menu, chances are things are freshly prepared (think noodle or rice dishes, eg.) and the chef can simply leave out the meat and fish if you ask. Another tip is don’t limit yourself to the main dishes. Have a look at starters, and maybe order 2 of those instead of 1 main dish if there’s any vegetarian options.

4.Be easy and don’t expect too much

Of course, in some places as a vegetarian you’ll be able to find the finest food and choose between different options from the menu. In other places you won’t, unless you decide to pay more and often miss out on the authentic local experience. In general in most South East Asian countries you won’t have that much trouble finding some vegetarian food, but you might have to accept eating similar dishes more or less every day.

Decide for yourself how far you’re willing to go – and how much money you’re willing to pay – and how important food is for your overall experience, and try to realize that eg. in small villages in the countryside they simply don’t have anything else.

5.Always carry some backup food

Stock up on healthy vegetarian food like nuts, granola bars, dried and even some fresh fruits when you’re in a bigger city – it’s usually very easy to find there. This way when you don’t get a full meal you always have something to complete it with and to avoid being hungry.

Have we got your mouth watering yet? If you can’t wait to explore the flavours of India, Cambodia or Vietnam take a look at our full range of volunteer tours here.

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5 Best tips to travel with only Hand Luggage

With more and more budget airlines offering cheap flights to our main destinations of Cambodia, Vietnam and India, it has become quite easy to save money on airfare. Unfortunately these tickets usually include only hand luggage and paying for check-in luggage can sometimes even double the total price. To beat that it’s time to enhance your packing skills and learn to travel with less stuff.

You may think this is only realistic for short weekend trips, if you’re a man who doesn’t need lots of beauty products or if you’re happy to just wear not-so-elegant zip-off trousers during your whole trip? Let us show you it’s also possible for fashionable women on trips that last several weeks. Trust us, we’ve tested it ourselves! Here are our best tips.

1.You’re probably allowed to take more than you’d think

Most budget airlines allow sharp items like nail scissors and razors in your carry-on luggage, so make sure to check this and you might be surprised! Usually they also allow one smaller piece of luggage like a handbag or laptop bag on top of your suitcase. Use this extra space well, eg. for personal items such as documents, sunglasses, phones, … and also make sure to wear your heaviest clothes and shoes on the plane to save weight in your luggage.

2. Limiting liquids and gels: slow down on the toiletries

Toiletries are heavy, take up a lot of space and big bottles of liquids and gels are simply not allowed in carry-on luggage. But this shouldn’t be a reason to pay heaps for checked-in luggage! You won’t have any problem buying soap, shampoo, toothpaste or even bug spray in pretty much any country in the world, and it’s often much cheaper, too!

Use small plastic containers (max. 100 mL but smaller if possible) to have enough for the first couple of days, and then just go shopping for the rest. An empty tote bag is light to pack – it could even be your handbag one the plane – and can be handy to keep all your beauty and hygiene products together once you’re there and carry them around easily.

3. You don’t need that many clothes and shoes

In most countries with a hot climate 2 pairs of shorts and some t-shirts or tank tops are basically all you’ll need. Add a sarong in case you need to cover up, a sweater or jumper (wear it on the plane), some underwear and beachwear and one or two nice dresses or other ‘evening outfits’ and you’re good to go. You probably won’t even need those jeans, but if you do want to pack trousers, a pair of light summery trousers will be much more comfortable and won’t add so much weight to your suitcase.

When it comes to shoes, we recommend one comfortable pair that you wear on the plane, a pair of nice sandals for the evening and a pair of flip-flops. And that’s it!

You don’t need to pack enough clothes for every single day of your whole trip, just wash things eg. once a week. Either simply in the sink or shower, or most of our hotels also do your whole laundry for only a few dollars. If you take quick-drying non-wrinkling clothes, they’ll be dry by the next morning and nobody will even notice you didn’t iron them!

4. Try an exotic new hairstyle

AKA leave your hairdryer at home! You probably won’t be using it when it’s 38°C in your room, and in hot and humid countries your work will be ruined in less than 10 minutes anyway. Your hair doesn’t fall as perfectly if you don’t use a hairdryer? Don’t worry, just call it exotic!

5. You don’t need stuff ‘just in case’

Again, pretty much everything can be bought abroad! You don’t need a full pharmacy, just pack small amounts of medicine to cure basic things like a headache, diarrhea or a small wound. Chances are if you need more, you’ll have to go see a doctor anyway. The same goes for spare parts, things you might need in case something breaks, etc. Just buy them if you need them but don’t carry them around all the time!

Do you have any tips to save space in your luggage? We would love to hear them in the comments below…

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That time I met a business man in Cambodia | Our Travellers Stories

I first met Douk when he interrupted a lunch the other day. As you may do when someone stops a conversation I told him we would catch up another day. I like to keep my word so today we did.

I had a ‘not-sure when it will happen but it will’ date with a total stranger. What more could you want.

We had a drink together, I was naughty and had a beer but as he was on working hours he declined and stuck with a soda.

We discussed his life and the stories behind how he came to have this little office of his. We talked about the countries I had visited and I was amazed he knew the population and distance of them all from here. We talked about family and everything in between.

He asked about the project I am doing here. ‘Australians’ he said, ‘They always help our children and I thank them’. Other tables around started asking about it too, they were intrigued and I felt had a genuine interest in getting involved with making a difference.

Douk asked if I could take his photo as he liked mine, sadly without my camera we settled for a snap on my mac. In hindsight, I stupidly assumed he would know what the computer was doing…

I purchased a book from his business to learn more about his history. He scurried off and told me to wait. He returned with a Cambodian Dictionary and and this Level 2 Cambodian book ‘A gift’ he replied with a smile, ‘A thank you from Cambodia’

‘Akun, Akun’ I cried out amazed by the generosity (and one of the few Khmer words I know – Thank you). That certainly is ‪#‎PayItForward‬ in real action and I will be following on from his lead again in a couple of days when we head to the capital.

I settled the bill and left, we penciled in a rough lunch date for next year.

I guess the thing I like the most about Douk is that he started his own business to support a family. He carries around all his books day in and day out. He hustles with charm and has an interesting story. He clearly wants to learn and know about the world. He has a passion that I love to find in anyone.

He also tragically has no arms, caused by a war he never wanted. The remains of those bombs litter his country and took away the very things I have typed this out with.

If he can have the smile, strength, will and power to start a business and make his own future then we all can.

I can’t wait to our next date to speak with him in Cambodian, the language he in a roundabout way will have taught me.

I guess sometimes those people we initially ignore have something much more to give us than we ever thought possible. We also have just as much we can give back.

But only if we choose too…

 

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Understanding Genocide in Cambodia: A visit to S21 and The Killing Fields

The noise of the violins rising from the audio guide, battling against the thunder. The young face peering through barbed wire with outstretched hands. Me, standing there with an umbrella hiding tears amongst the rain drops.

It could have been a movie scene.

But it wasn’t.

It was the remains of a hell I was stood in the midst of.

I look down and see bones, to my side the floor is littered with the remains of clothes. The skulls of those who were tortured sit in the distance. The reality of the Killing Fields, the history, the emotion consuming me in a completely new way.

I look inwards and question why I can’t help that young boy stood soaking wet whose eyes are glazed over. Why my world has been so much more fairer than this one. Why these places ever had to exist.

Why?

It was the only word I could muster…

The dark history of Cambodia was never touched on in my school education and that seemed a common theme throughout the group I visited with, if you are the same allow me to talk history.

Genocide in Cambodia

During the Khmer Rouge regime, nearly anyone with an education or connection to the previous government was a threat. All those, and many others, that came under these categories were rounded up, arrested and tortured before eventually being executed.

This is not from centuries ago, but recent history which took place in the 1970s. Although exact numbers of those murdered fluctuate between resources many figures average out around the two million mark. Ethnicities were targeted along with Monks and religion. The tragic reality is, many western countries had the chance to help stop this, but whether through great deception, extreme naivety or the decision not to acknowledge it they didn’t. I am not going to start talking politics on this subject, you will have your own decision after visiting the museum.

The figures however do not count the millions of other who died through starvation and illness after the executions. The impact of the Khmer Rouge lives on and is evident in modern day Cambodia. The warmth, strength and power of the Khmer people however triumphs these days and is noticed straight away by any visitor. For a more in-depth history, check out Wikipedia.

Cambodia History

The Killing Fields

Never have I visited a place so raw and so emotional. The audio guide tour is incredibly detailed and includes history, stories and some of the most haunting specially composed music I have heard. Shortly after arrival a storm struck which dislodged bones and clothing from the floor. This is not a tidied up and glamorized version of history, it is very raw and incredibly impactful.

The Killing Fields, of which this is one of many, were the murder site of beyond a million people. Mass graves hidden out of sight are now ditches in the grass and act as a memorial to the tragedies that took place here. You can still see the trees children were beaten to death against and a memorial building houses the skulls of many whose bodies were dislodged to the surface. Words can’t describe this place. Although graphic and challenging to visit, it gives such an insight into the country I couldn’t have gained from anywhere else.

S21 Prison Museum

S21 Prison Museum

The Toul Sleng Genocide museum, also referred to as S21 Prison has been cleaned up in parts to house the history on display. In other wings, little has changed and the weight of the history and tragedy literally clings to you skin as you slowly take it in and chills linger over you. Doing both here and The Killing Fields back to back makes for a tough experience. People in my group broke down in tears and had to leave. The day was unlike any other I have had at similar places to remember a dark history.

During the Cambodian genocide, this old school was converted to be a detention centre for those 17, 000 who were hold here before heading to the Killing Fields. The grounds became a burial site for those who died during torture whilst under arrest in the very building. It now houses photos and stories to be learnt from as well as retaining some of the original fittings. The photographs of the faces that once resided here will haunt you long after you have returned home.

To Discover Cambodia from the inside out learn more about joining one of our tours with a twist.

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5 Street Foods You Need to Try in Cambodia

Whether you’re a real foodie or not, eating is a part of every trip. And what better way to support the local community than to try some of that delicious street food? Here’s our list of favorites from our small group tour in Cambodia.

1.Fish amok

Fish amok is a classic Khmer dish made from fish, coconut milk and curry paste. All the ingredients are put together in banana leaves and steamed, and lots of spices such as chili, cumin, turmeric root and lemongrass are added to ensure a perfect mix of flavors. Popular throughout the whole country and best when simply served with some hot sticky rice, this dish is a must-eat for everyone visiting Cambodia! 

Cambodia Street Food

2. On the BBQ: Pork skewers and grilled sausages

Cambodians love barbecued food, and you’ll have no problem finding it in one of the many street stalls all over the country. Cheap and tasteful, pork skewers or grilled sausages make for a perfect snack at any time of the day. Whether you like sweet or spicy food, these delights will definitely make you mouth-water. Can’t wait for snack-time? No problem! Served with vegetables and rice, they’re also a popular breakfast.

3. Lok lak

Huge portions of stir fried beef or pork in a brown sauce served with salad, rice, lime juice and black pepper – how could anyone not like that? The meat is marinated first to make it even more flavorsome, and every region has its own typical mix of spices, so you’ll never get the same taste twice. In traditional Cambodian cuisine this dish is wrapped up in a lettuce leaf, which also makes it super easy to eat on the street.

4. Kuy teav (noodle soup)

Simple but tasteful, noodle soup is a popular dish in all of Southeast Asia. The base is always the same – pork or beef stock, rice noodles and toppings – but Cambodian noodle soup differs from eg. its neighbor’s version because it’s usually served with different kinds of meat or fish balls. Whether you like spicy food or not, this dish’s for everyone! The basic preparation is usually quite tasteless, and you get to pick your own spices as you order to give the soup whichever taste you like and make it as spicy as you can handle. Traditionally noodle soup is a breakfast dish, but you’ll find it all through the day in most places.

Angkor Wat

5. Drinks and fruit

Whether you’re in the city or on the countryside, the Cambodian heat will get you thirsty. Popular drinks like ice coffee of sugar cane juice are very sweet and might not be the best way to quench your thirst, but they’re so refreshing and delicious you probably won’t be able to get enough of them.

Another great refreshment is fruit. Juicy slices of pineapple, watermelon, papaya, guava, … cost only a few riel and will give you enough energy to resist the heat for a couple of hours. 

Don’t forget to try some pickled fruit, too! Some are only slightly pickled, others more heavily, so there’s something for every taste, and all come with a sweet and sour mixture that you dip the fruit into before eating it. Delicious!

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Lessons From The People of Cambodia | Our Travellers Stories

Today Sally fills us in on the take away from her experience travelling with Hands on Journeys…

In our final days I was asked, ‘What pre-conceived notions did you have about Cambodia?’ and I was somewhat stumped. I realised not only had I very ignorantly neglected to learn about this beautiful country in my 22 years, I had also neglected to learn about it prior to entering it.

I had lumped it into the category of South-East Asia and likened it to my experiences in other geographically similar countries like Indonesia and Thailand. During my Hands on Journeys experience I came to learn that Cambodia is quite unique in so many ways, and while there is no definitive answer for why, it’s undeniable they exist. So here are the four most eye-opening experiences and as a result, the experiences that have shaped my now educated notions of Cambodia.

Hands on Journeys Tour Group

  1. I landed in Siem Reap at around 9:30pm Cambodian-time, the night before the official beginning of the tour and was eagerly greeted by our first tour guide, Samnang, a bundle of total energy and humility. During the short taxi ride, he rattled off fact after fact about Siem Reap – increases in population and infrastructure over the preceding years, the central geographical location, religious leanings, describing and explaining landmarks as we drove past.

    I was absolutely blown away by the depth of his knowledge and came to think; if someone came to Australia there is no way I could provide such local or national background knowledge, even with private schooling, a tertiary education and endless resources. But he, and every Cambodian person I met, was proud of his country and wanted to share his wealth of knowledge with us. And as uneducated as I was at that point, I was in complete admiration of that.
  2. As I said I cannot make a definitive judgment as to why the Cambodian people are as wonderful as they are, or why Samnang was so proud of his country, but I can make an opinion-based judgement. In 1979, after the Khmer Rouge had wiped out half of the Cambodian population, the survivors were left with heartbreak so deep it’s so difficult to comprehend. In this situation you can let the doom of the past swallow you, or you can look forward and have faith that the future is much brighter than the past.My second eye-opening experience was the collective kindness and genuine happiness of every Cambodian person I met, despite the horrors and adversity they faced.  Their smiles, laughter and positivity was so heart-warming and genuinely inspiring it made me think: if they can survive that and emerge on the other side as a united, optimistic and happy country, there’s nothing we in the western world cannot overcome.
  3. My third eye-opening experience came in the second village we visited outside Phnom Penh, a population of around 300 people. I quickly learned that hostility and negativity just did not exist in this community. Absolutely baffled, I repeatedly made observations of how there were no threats in this community. The kids ran around freely and wander into their neighbours houses as they please, the older residents socialise in hammocks and at the coffee shop. They work when they need to work, the kids help with no objections.I asked our English speaking host, Daro, ‘How is everyone so chilled? How is there no negativity or hostility?’ and he simply responded ‘Because we respect each other.’ Like it was odd I even had to ask. And I thought back to everyone I’d ever gossiped about or every petty little thing that has ever annoyed me and realised, it is odd that I had to ask. Odd and sad.Sall on Tour
  4. Some of you who are HOJs blog enthusiasts may have already read that our crew was invited to personally sit, pray and eat with the head Monk of this village. This was a pinnacle moment for me. We were attending a traditional ceremony during the biggest religious festival of their calendar year and it was probably the most laughable fish-out-of-water scene you could imagine. I couldn’t help but think ‘Oh my goodness, we have no idea what we’re doing, we’re probably disrespecting their religion so badly right now.’ But shockingly, instead of being cast out or shot dirty looks we were invited to interact with the head Monk – a privilege most of these devoted worshippers would never receive in their lifetime, yet we stroll on in and are invited to engage in this magical moment. But again, to my shock, we were met with complete acceptance, not only from the head Monk but every person in that pagoda who was guiding us in the ceremony or thanking us for being there.They weren’t spiteful or jealous, it didn’t even occur to them to feel that way. Their pure and beautiful souls welcomed us in and accepted us as one of their own. That lesson that they didn’t even mean to teach has stuck with me, and I hope it will stick with me forever.

Cambodia

There are countless other moments and qualities that opened my eyes during my time in Cambodia and I have said from the very first day that collectively, the people of Cambodia are the kindest I have ever met.

They are the kind of people who make you want to improve yourself, who logistically are less developed than us but in so many ways are so beautifully advanced and their genuinely good hearts are infectious in the best way.

Despite one of the many driving forces behind Hands on Journeys being our desire to give back, the people of Cambodia equipped me with enough lessons to last a lifetime.

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Ten Reasons to join a Hands on Journeys tour | Our Travellers Stories

Today Kate Strong, otherwise known as Strong Kate shares the ten things she loved about her Hands on Journeys experience.

Visiting Cambodia and Vietnam for the first time, I was curious what a two-week tour could offer my well-travelled self. Joining the tour, I arrived with an open mind and without sounding too dramatic, this tour has shifted my perception of travel.

How can this whistle-stop tour with a group of strangers have really impacted me so profoundly?

Kate Cambodia Vietnam Photos

I’ve lightened my experience with these ten reasons how the Hands On Journeys Tour positively impacted my life:

See the sights in comfort

Enjoying the comfort of someone else arranging a bus to arrive at dawn for a magical sunrise is a treat. It also allowed me to be more present – to enjoy every experience, rather than having to plan for the next part of the trip.

Kate Cambodia Vietnam Photos

Local tour guide

Travelling ‘en masse’ sometimes prevents you from experiencing the essence of where you are. Having a guide who is native to the country and town permitted a deeper level of appreciation for the sights we were visiting.

One such moment arrived on a visit to the ‘Killing Fields’ of Cambodia. Seeing first-hand the genocide that happened where I was standing and hearing numbers of hundreds and thousands of people murdered and affected from this act numbed me. Having Cham to share his personal story of his family who went to these camps personalised the story and gave me a glimpse of real life in what could be perceived as a horror story.

Kate Cambodia Vietnam Photos

Time to reflect and meditate

Usually travelling alone, I invariably have a complication along the way; either I miss a connecting bus, a hotel has lost my reservation or I confuse the opening hours for the temple I intended to visit. These hiccups slowly eat away at my time and my patience and, usually by the end of the day, my stress levels have risen.

Touring removes these complications and returns to me time and peace of mind. The reward is at the end of the day, I am comfortable and relaxed with time to stop, to reflect and enjoy the moment.

Kate Cambodia Vietnam Photos

Live like a child again

Wherever I am in the world, I am always mindful of staying safe. This is especially true when travelling alone in a foreign country where I don’t speak the local language. Having a tour where I can leave my possessions safely on a bus whilst visiting sights means I can let my hair down and release some worries that usually come whilst travelling solo.

Local knowledge also lets me visit parks and local attractions which might have otherwise been overlookedKate Cambodia Vietnam Photos.

 

Make new friends

The people who chose a Hands On Journeys tour have similar passions to me: to better understand the local culture whilst also empowering the communities we visit.

We are obviously going to get on! Having two intense weeks together, I have learnt a lot about myself and also made life-long friends with whom I will stay in contact, and travel with again for sure.

 

Discover the Cambodia & Vietnam tour that Kate joined us on

 

Install new positive habits

Two weeks visiting communities through Cambodia and Vietnam showed me how resourceful, how positive and how productive people are if you focus on what you have, and not focus on what you’re lacking.

Watching children play with fruit fallen from trees, adults creating a business with $5 and families bonding over herding their cows taught me to appreciate every small detail I might have overlooked previously.

These moments remind me to be grateful for what I have – every day – to never take for granted health, wealth and friendship and to make sure I put to good use everything I have in my life.

Kate Cambodia Vietnam Photos

Learn to cook delicious healthy food

Whilst travelling, I adore eating the local cuisine. Having a chef guiding me through the local market explaining what exotic fruit and vegetables I’m seeing was a treat. In addition, she showed how to cook these local delicacies and what health benefits they offer. In addition, the chef invite us back to her restaurant and cook with her a few local favourites tailored to every person’s dietary requirements was a delicious surprise and a skill I will definitely repeat back home.

Kate Cambodia Vietnam Photos

Put life in perspective

#FirstWorldProblem is thrown around when we are having a stumbling moment in our lives. Getting caught-up in the daily grind of life I sometimes forget to stop focusing on my to-do list and start looking around me.

Everywhere in life there is beauty, opportunity and abundance and it is our choice to see it. It is easy to start complaining about the small niggles we meet throughout our day. Try living without clean water for 24 hours and suddenly the problem of not finding a car parking space near our local café dissolves.

 

Empower, not depend

“Empty pockets never held anyone back.  Only empty heads and hearts can do that – Norman Vincent Peale”

This quote came to me as we visited our third community: We visited a group of women who lived, with their families, on floating boats. Due to limited work opportunities in the area, these ladies were forced to wait days and sometimes weeks to earn money to buy food for their children and extended family.

The limitation wasn’t their willingness to work, it was the lack of resources.

Hands On Journeys founder, Simla, had the idea to teach the women how to make bracelets to sell to tourists at local hotels and markets. Within one week, these ladies had produced over 600 bracelets ready for the markets.

They were empowered to make positive change in their own lives and created a sustainable business for themselves.

Kate Cambodia Vietnam Photos

Make a wish

Life is as we see it. I learned that most problems and challenges I face are generated in my mind – in a future that is yet to exist.

Whilst on this tour, I learned that Hands On Journeys company started with a wish – Simla wished to create a business that empowered communities in third world countries. After hundreds of hours of hard work and complete dedication to her dream, this is now a reality.

Simla taught me to make a wish – to wish for something big in my life, to wish for something that will inspire positive change for others. And then to commit to it.

 

I have a phrase I read every morning, a habit I started on this tour. It keeps me focused on my own dream and wish and helps me work through the more challenging moments in life:
“There comes a time in life, when you walk away from all the drama and people who create it. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good. Love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don’t. Life is too short to be anything but happy. Falling down is part of life, getting back up is living.”

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Can you Party and Pay it Forward? | Our Travellers Stories

Pub Street became an ongoing joke amongst our group of travellers on our tour of Cambodia and Vietnam.

If you’re not sure what Pub Street is, it’s exactly what you think it is. Possibly the least creative naming of a location in the history of the world. It is quite literally a street full of pubs, clubs, bars, restaurants – all of which sell copious amounts of alcohol.

Pub Street Siem Reap

Where I’m from, the Gold Coast in Australia, partying is pretty common.

Some might say we consume an above average amount of alcohol and I can say with confidence every time my GP asks how many standard drinks I consume during a ‘binge’ he almost falls off his chair. So when I met the first member of the Hands on Journeys crew at Ho Chi Minh airport on our connecting flight to Siem Reap, I asked nervously “Do you think this will be like, a party trip. Do you think everyone will party?” To which Maria replied “Oh God I hope so! It is now!” I made some awkward comment about how the best way to bond with someone is to get rolling drunk with them, do some stupid stuff and make some (fuzzy) memories.

And bond we did! We arrived at the hotel in Siem Reap at about 10pm local time, which meant 1am Australian time, which meant I had been travelling for 17 hours and was ready for a shower and bed. But Simla, almighty founder of Hands on Journeys, had other ideas. She convinced us to go out to Pub Street for what she called ‘one drink’. Many hours and twice as many tequila shots later, I deemed that as a lie.

We jumped in a tuk tuk and met the majority of the group in a restaurant where I was immediately force fed a beer and awkwardly introduced to everyone at the table. Shortly afterwards we were fist pumping to some heavy tunes, licking salt off each others hands (ok maybe that was just me) and laughing like we’d known each other for years.

Sally

If I told you the things that happened that night you wouldn’t believe me.

We saw, and fueled, a massive dance battle between a 13 year old local girl and some random tourist who I’m pretty sure was a professional b-boy. They are absolutely tearing it up while about 50 people look on, yelling encouragement and voicing their amazement at these moves. Next minute some guy dressed all in white jumps in and does a backflip. Where else does that happen?!

The clubs are all open and security is loose, so everyone from all the different clubs just dance and mingle in the street outside each respective venue. The music is clashing and the drinks are in street-friendly plastic cups but it’s just heavenly and free. I met an older man who was wearing knee high women’s socks and denim short shorts, who handed me a note that just said ‘Jeff”. I had my hair done by a local who just decided my current hairstyle wasn’t working for me and needed improving. We played games in the street until the early AM, until we were ready for bed and my stomach had a hot date with a Cambodian toilet bowl.

A couple of days later our resident traveller and English legend, Dan, would get so reckless in Pub Street he did the worm in the street and started a flash mob. Both of which became ongoing jokes throughout the entire trip and vivid memories I will cherish forever.

Why does this matter on a tour?

Although these experiences and Pub Street might not seem that amazing from your point of view, this place was pinnacle to my experience with Hands on Journeys as it set the tone for the entire trip. I made memories with these fantastic people who everyone opened up and were perfectly and unashamedly themselves. When considering travelling in a group you might worry that you won’t like the other people, or they might not like you, so it was a huge relief to me, personally, that I could jump off a plane and into this group of people who were so open to having fun and doing stupid things as I am.

Although we encountered a huge variety of experiences together during our trip, for me it was that first night on Pub Street that brought me together with this group and I will forever be grateful to, and fondly remember our Pub Street.